Gone South: S4|E36 - The Combo Plate King
Release Date: June 25, 2025
Host: Jed Lipinski
Produced by: Audacy Podcasts

Introduction

In the 36th episode of its fourth season, Gone South delves deep into the life and downfall of Greg Leone, a prominent South Carolina restaurateur known as the "Combo Plate King." Hosted by Jed Lipinski, this episode navigates the intricate web of crime, community influence, and personal relationships that ultimately led to Greg's legal troubles and the unraveling of his empire.

The Night of the Crime ([02:36] - [04:48])

The episode opens on Valentine's Day, a night that Greg Leone would later describe as life-altering. South Carolina attorney Eric Bland recounts receiving an urgent call from Greg, a client and close friend of over two decades. Greg had discovered his wife in a compromising situation, leading to a heated confrontation where he shot a man he believed posed a threat.

Eric Bland: "I figured the call could wait and send it to voicemail, but Greg immediately called back, so I excused myself and answered." ([02:36])

Greg explained that during the altercation, the man allegedly reached for a gun, prompting Greg to act in self-defense. Eric, adhering to his professional duty, guided Greg towards the Lexington County Police Station, hoping to turn themselves in peacefully.

Upon arrival, they were met with a heavy police presence. Greg's attempt to surrender was impeded when Eric stood firm against using Greg's Range Rover to drive them to safety.

Greg Leone: "We're going to go turn ourselves in. And he says, okay, let's drive him my car. I said, fuck, no, I'm not driving in your car." ([03:14])

Despite Greg's willingness to cooperate, the police lacked evidence, notably the missing gun, leading to prolonged speculation in the community about the incident.

Greg Leone: The Restaurateur and Community Pillar ([06:37] - [14:19])

Eric Bland provides a comprehensive background on Greg Leone, highlighting his roots from San Jose de la Paz, Jalisco, Mexico. Migrating to the United States in the early 80s, Greg became a cornerstone in the South Carolina restaurant scene with his San Jose chain, known for introducing authentic Mexican cuisine to a region previously unfamiliar with such flavors.

Gustavo Arellano: "They realized the south has no Mexican food at all. This is our road to riches." ([11:09])

Greg's restaurants were more than just eateries; they were community hubs. He employed undocumented workers from his hometown, provided housing, and actively supported local families in need. His philanthropic efforts earned him the title "un orgullo Hispano" (a Hispanic to be proud of).

Greg Leone: "If you came to Greg and said you needed a job, he'd give you a job... If there was four bedrooms, four guys got to live in there rent free." ([27:34])

Relationship with Law Enforcement ([16:25] - [23:13])

Greg's success was intertwined with a symbiotic relationship with local law enforcement, particularly Lexington County Sheriff James Metz. This arrangement allowed Greg to employ undocumented workers without fear of raids, as law enforcement enjoyed free meals and favors at his restaurants.

Greg Leone: "They know that he was chicken fighting in Lexington County. You know, he had land where they would do this to a point where law enforcement officers were there at the chicken fights as spectators." ([19:15])

However, this relationship began to crumble in 2012 when South Carolina tightened its immigration laws, leading to increased scrutiny and demands for favors in exchange for continued protection.

The Federal Investigation and Downfall ([25:22] - [28:48])

A federal investigation launched around 2013 targeted public corruption in Lexington County, focusing on Sheriff Metz and Greg Leone. Faced with the possibility of prosecution, Greg cooperated with authorities, testifying against Metz in exchange for leniency. This cooperation led to Metz's indictment on multiple counts of corruption.

Greg Leone: "They decide they were going to pinch this guy... Greg had to be a snitch. He had to turn and testify against Sheriff Metz." ([25:49])

The fallout was severe: Greg was charged with employing undocumented immigrants and labor violations, resulting in nearly $400,000 in fines and a nine-month federal prison sentence.

Contrasting Perspectives: Eric Bland vs. Gustavo Arellano ([28:11] - [29:48])

Eric Bland defends Greg Leone, emphasizing his philanthropic nature and the familial treatment of his employees.

Greg Leone: "These workers, to Greg were family. He treated them like family." ([27:57])

Contrastingly, Gustavo Arellano, a columnist for the Los Angeles Times, offers a critical view, arguing that Greg's success was built on systemic exploitation inherent to the restaurant industry.

Gustavo Arellano: "This entire system of how they built their restaurants is basically built on the patron system. The idea that I am the boss and you have to report to me and you have to give me a share of your earnings. That's Mafia style." ([29:21])

Arellano references a Department of Labor report revealing over $10 million in fines against Mexican restaurants tied to San Jose de la Paz for workplace discrimination and labor violations.

Life After Prison and Community Relations ([30:20] - [32:45])

After serving his sentence, Greg attempted to rebuild his business empire. However, the shadow of his cooperation with federal authorities tainted his relationships with law enforcement and local government. Efforts to expand his restaurant chain faced bureaucratic hurdles, contrasting sharply with his previous ease of operation.

Greg Leone: "We used to be able to Open a restaurant. Curb cuts, no problem... Now we're building a new restaurant, and it's a nightmare." ([30:53])

Despite these challenges, Greg's existing restaurants remained popular, though the influx of law enforcement patrons diminished, indicating a shift in his standing within the community.

Conclusion and Insights

Gone South paints a multifaceted portrait of Greg Leone, oscillating between a beloved community figure and a symbol of systemic exploitation. The episode underscores the complexities of immigrant entrepreneurship in the American South, highlighting how success can be both a personal triumph and a manifestation of broader socio-economic dynamics.

Notable Quotes

• Eric Bland on Greg's Memory:
  "A memory like you've never seen. Don't ever quote something to him that you think you were right on, or he. He'll tell you exactly where you were and what was said, and he remembers everything." ([16:43])

• Greg on His Relationship with Sheriff Metz:
  "They know that he was chicken fighting in Lexington County... So he had this amazing relationship with law enforcement." ([19:15])

• Gustavo Arellano on the Patron System:
  "That's Mafia style. And the judge even spelled it like an Italian would. Petroni with an e." ([29:21])

Final Thoughts

This episode of Gone South not only narrates a captivating true-crime story but also invites listeners to ponder the fine line between community leadership and unethical business practices. Through Greg Leone's rise and fall, the podcast explores themes of loyalty, corruption, and the elusive nature of the American Dream.

For more detailed accounts and personal narratives, tune into Gone South on the Odyssey app or your preferred podcast platform.